Mumbai may not host final if Pakistan play

The uncertainty over Women's World Cup venues is far from over. The final of event could be shifted from Mumbai to Cuttack if Pakistan make it to the summit clash.

The Group B games, which include matches featuring Pakistan, were earlier shifted to Cuttack, following threats of disruption by right-wing parties. Pakistan kickoff their campaign against Australia on Friday at the Barabati stadium.

Three teams each from the two groups go through to the Super Six stage. The top two teams from Super Six then progress to the final. If Pakistan make it to the final, their game will be staged in Cuttack.

"Pakistan's Super Six games will be played at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. If they make the final, the summit clash will have to be shifted to Cuttack. We cannot take a chance," a tournament official told the Hindustan Times on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, in a wholehearted attempt to popularise women's cricket, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) has been enlisted to bring schoolchildren to the games.

Promoting cricketDuring Thursday's game between India and the West Indies, there was a better-than-expected crowd, mainly comprising schoolchildren.

"An NGO will be bringing around 3000 schoolchildren to each game," said another official.

"It should be a good way to promote women's cricket. School buses have been arranged to ensure that they reach home safely after every match."